Question

Unidentified Plant   QUESTION: I have a client who owns this large potted plant. (Photo attached.) The pot is approximately 12 inches in width at the top and 12 inches high. She says the plant has been in her family for nearly 40 years, but she's not sure what it is. I know the picture is not high-quality, but I'm hoping it's sufficient for you to identify it.

The leaves are large, leathery, and oval-shaped. The main stem coming out of the pot is brown and viney with "layers" like a coconut tree (?). There is one reddish-pink flower near the base that is just beginning to open, so I can't tell the shape of it. The plant itself is about 24 inches high, but it looks like it tends to grow more horizontally than vertically. Let me know if you need more description. Thank you!

ANSWER: Hi Rebecca,

Your client's plant is a Philodendron. I cannot say just which species and variety because of the quality of the photo and because there are so many different Philodendron varieties and hybrids.

It is badly overgrown and in a pot that is larger than ideal. However, given its age, I don't recommend pruning or repotting. It does best in very bright indirect light and it should be watered lightly whenever the top 2 inches of soil feel dry.

I have written an article on Philodendron care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends a request to me at [email protected].

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com




---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Will,

Thank you so much for the information! My client is wanting to propagate it. Is that also counter-indicated, given the condition?

Answer
Hi Rebecca,

I cannot see the plant clearly in the photo, but it looks like there is only a single stem.

There is some risk, but it can be propagated by cutting off the stem just below the healthiest leaves. Insert 2-4 inches of bare stem in a SMALL pot filled with a standard peat-based potting mix. Insert the stem at whatever angle is necessary to give the plant an upright appearance.

If your client is diligent about keeping the soil properly moist, but not constantly wet, then the cutting should root slowly but successfully. The risk in not watering properly is losing the cutting and therefore the plant.

Let me know if you need additional information on propagation techniques.

~Will Creed